08/12/2025
π Tree of Kindness Year 5 π
This marks my fifth year of doing this simple yet meaningful random act of kindness. And this time, I want to share a story, one that happened right after last yearβs gift-giving.
On November 24, 2024, as we were heading home from our gift giving in Guinsaanan, Baras, Catanduanes, the vessel MV Don Herculano that we boarded encountered engine trouble.
For more than 14 hours, we, along with over 100 other passengers, were stranded, floating in the middle of the sea. No signal. It was dark, we were exhausted, and help didnβt arrive until the next morning. Even the Philippine Coast Guard was only informed hours later, after the captain had filed a report in the morning.
I was there...
I was really there...
Cold. Hungry. Scared.
Together with two of our female volunteers, we experienced this firsthand. But in the midst of fear and fatigue, I told myself:
"This will not stop me."
It was a reminder of the reality many people live with daily. Hardships, waiting, uncertainty. And it only made my heart more determined.
This year, I continue.
I still remember what one beneficiary told me last year:
βIto po ang pinakaunang beses na may dumating na tulong samin dito.β
That moment broke my heart⦠and filled it with purpose.
π± This yearβs Tree of Kindness is fueled not just by donations, but by love, memory, and mission.
My partner and I also recently opened a small staycation in Legazpi last June β Huttin To - Legazpi. It's more than just a kubo or staycation to relax in; it's a part of this dream. Every time you book with us or buy from our Honesty Store, you're helping fund this movement. Because I believe that kindness lives in everyone and when we choose to share, we plant seeds that grow into change.
π© If you'd like to book, donate, volunteer, or suggest a beneficiary, feel free to send me a message.
You may also send your support to:
β¨ GCash: 0929 143 1090 (Christine Joy Aringo)
β¨ BPI: 0859264069 | Christine Joy E. Aringo
β¨ Or hand it to me personally.
Let's build this tree together. One act of kindness at a time.
Huttin To, diba? Satuya Ini. π€